New York State Builders Association

Stand Up Against Slips, Trips and Falls

By Kevin McBride, Senior Vice President, Alliant

How many times have you seen one of your workers climbing a ladder stationed on uneven ground, standing dangerously close to the edge of scaffolding, or walking tenuously across an uneven surface?

Most times, nothing happens. It’s business as usual. But what about the one time something does? One wrong step can sideline experienced workers, delay projects, and cost you time and money.

Slip, trip, and fall hazards are often in plain sight but can be overlooked simply because they are so commonplace. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “slips and trip and falls” and “falls to a lower level”–usually off a ladder or roof–were the second and third leading causes of workplace accidents.

There are a number of prevention strategies you can use to reduce these accidents. For example:

Rushed jobs or understaffing–a breeding ground for accidents–can be avoided with some good pre-planning in estimating the amount of labor needed for the project and the type of equipment to be used.

Be diligent about the use of proper tools and personal protective equipment.

Create a safety culture by training your more experienced installers to mentor and encourage safe practices among younger, less experienced employees.

There are also plenty of useful, onsite ways to protect your door business from slip, trip, and fall claims. This handy guide untangles some common slip and fall exposures for garage door companies and will help you take some sound steps to fewer accidents, fewer claims, and a stronger bottom line both at your place of business and on the jobsite.